Whey protein is one of two major protein groups of milk. Whey is produced as a byproduct of making cheese. In addition to protein, unprocessed whey contains fat, lactose, and a few other substances. Raw whey is processed to produce protein-rich whey protein concentrates and whey protein isolates. Whey protein concentrates are rich in whey protein but also contain fat and lactose. Whey protein isolates are low in fat and lactose.

The main proteins in whey are beta-lactoglobulin and alpha-lactoglobulin, which together account for nearly 80% of total whey protein. Alpha-lactalbumin is high in the amino acid tryptophan, which the body uses to make the neurotransmitter serotonin. Studies have shown that supplementing with alpha-lactal can help improve memory impairment caused by stress.

Whey protein is more rapidly digested than other proteins, such as casein (another milk protein) and may prove useful in the nutrition of some infants and other individuals. There is some evidence that they may have even had some immune-modulating and anticancer effects. However, to date there is no compelling evidence that whey protein builds muscle faster than other protein sources.

Whey protein recommended dosage

There is a variety of different types of supplemental whey protein. These include whey protein concentrates, whey protein isolates, whey protein hydrolysates, and combinations of all of these types. While doses of whey protein are variable depending on the intended use, some individuals will take 10 to 25 grams of whey protein daily.